Strawberry Chicken Salad is packed with contrasting textures and flavors: tender chicken, juicy berries, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, and it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and completely customizable to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (grilled, baked, or pan-seared)
Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
Crumbled feta or goat cheese
Sliced red onion
Chopped pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds
Balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder (optional for seasoning chicken)
Honey or balsamic glaze (optional for drizzling)
Directions
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
Grill or cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil until fully cooked and golden brown, about 6–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let rest, then slice thinly.
In a large bowl or on individual plates, arrange a bed of mixed greens.
Top the greens with sliced strawberries, red onion, cheese, and chopped nuts.
Add the sliced chicken on top.
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or your dressing of choice.
Finish with a touch of balsamic glaze or honey if desired for extra sweetness.
Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2–4 people depending on portion size. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cook time is approximately 15 minutes.
Variations
Berry Mix: Add blueberries or raspberries for extra color and flavor.
Avocado Addition: Sliced avocado brings creaminess and healthy fats.
Grains: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro to make it more filling.
Vegan Version: Omit the chicken and cheese; replace with chickpeas or grilled tofu.
Different Cheese: Use blue cheese crumbles or shaved Parmesan for a flavor twist.
Crispy Chicken: Use breaded chicken tenders for a more indulgent version.
Storage/Reheating
For best results, store the salad components separately. Keep the dressing in a sealed container and toss everything together just before serving.
Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold. Assembled salad (without dressing) can be stored for up to 24 hours but is best enjoyed fresh to avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works well in this salad.
What type of greens work best?
Spinach, arugula, spring mix, or a combination of your favorites provide a fresh, flavorful base.
What dressing goes best with this salad?
Balsamic vinaigrette and poppy seed dressing are classic pairings, but honey mustard or raspberry vinaigrette also work well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, store the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
How do I cook the chicken if I don’t have a grill?
You can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or pan-sear it on the stovetop.
Can I add grains or pasta?
Absolutely. Cooked quinoa, farro, or orzo add bulk and make it more filling.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all ingredients (especially the dressing) are free from gluten.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch.
What nuts are best for this salad?
Pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds all work well. Toasting them enhances their flavor and crunch.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, just keep wet ingredients like strawberries and dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
Strawberry Chicken Salad is a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that celebrates fresh ingredients and bold contrasts. It’s perfect for spring and summer, but just as enjoyable year-round. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a dinner full of color, or a new go-to salad, this recipe is a delicious and refreshing choice.
Strawberry Chicken Salad is a vibrant, refreshing salad that pairs grilled chicken with sweet strawberries, mixed greens, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts, all topped with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a light meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:2–4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:Grilled or Pan-Seared
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
5 oz mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup sliced red onion
1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
1/4 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette or poppy seed dressing
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Let rest and slice thinly.
Arrange a bed of mixed greens in a large bowl or on plates.
Top with sliced strawberries, red onion, crumbled cheese, and chopped nuts.
Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or your preferred dressing.
Optional: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for added sweetness. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.Add avocado, blueberries, or grains like quinoa for variation.Toast nuts for enhanced flavor.Store components separately if prepping ahead.Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese for a dairy-free version.
